Utah is a treasure trove of natural wonders, and Zion National Park is a crown jewel in this stunning landscape. If you're planning a trip to Zion National Park, you're in for an adventure of a lifetime. This guide will take you through the best places to visit in Utah, including must-see spots within Zion, a unique attraction in Kanab, and an exciting itinerary for Bryce Canyon, Horseshoe Bend, and the Grand Canyon after your Zion exploration.
Exploring Zion National Park: Hikes and Sights You Can't Miss
Zion National Park is a hiker's paradise, offering a range of trails from easy walks to challenging climbs. Here are some of the top hikes and attractions you should include in your itinerary:
Canyon Overlook Trail
The Canyon Overlook Trail is a short but rewarding hike that offers stunning views of Zion Canyon. This one-mile round-trip hike is perfect for those looking to experience breathtaking vistas without a strenuous climb. The trailhead is located near the Zion-Mt. Carmel Tunnel, making it an accessible and popular choice for visitors.
The Narrows
The Narrows is one of the most iconic hikes in Zion National Park. This hike takes you through the Virgin River, where you'll wade and sometimes swim through narrow canyons with towering walls. It's an unforgettable experience, but be sure to check the weather and river conditions before you go, as flash floods can occur.
Angels Landing
For thrill-seekers, Angels Landing is a must. This strenuous hike is famous for its steep, narrow ridgeline that offers incredible views of Zion Canyon. The hike is 5.4 miles round trip and involves a significant elevation gain, so it's best suited for experienced hikers.
Emerald Pools Trail
The Emerald Pools Trail offers a more relaxed hike with beautiful scenery, including waterfalls and lush vegetation. There are three levels of pools—Lower, Middle, and Upper—and the trail can be adjusted to fit your energy level and time constraints.
Observation Point
For panoramic views that rival Angels Landing, consider the Observation Point trail. This 8-mile round-trip hike takes you to one of the highest viewpoints in Zion, offering breathtaking views of the canyon and beyond.
Discover the Moqui Sand Caves in Kanab, Utah
While exploring Southern Utah, don't miss the Moqui Sand Caves in Kanab. These unique sandstone caves are located just off Highway 89, making them an easy stop on your way to or from Zion National Park. The caves were originally created as sand mines in the 1970s but have since become a popular spot for photography and exploration.
To reach the Moqui Sand Caves, you'll need to scramble up a short but steep hillside. Once inside, you'll be rewarded with a cool, cavernous space and stunning views of the surrounding desert landscape. The caves are especially beautiful at sunset when the light casts a warm glow on the sand walls.
We actually stayed in Kanab for a few days because it was such a cute city and the drives to all of our sight seeing places made it the perfect location. There is a small town dine in resutarant that was so good that we ate at almost every night that we came home from the park.
The real gem here is the farm house we stayed at. It was one I had found on online but the hosts were the kind of people that you never forget. She was so kind and welcomed us when we got there to make sure we were all taken care of and gave us the backstory on their property. The family grew up in the house before they built a bigger home on the land. I told the host it was my birthday the day we came in and the host actually baked me a cake! It was the sweetest thing from someone I did not know.
Their home sits on acres of a farm so its more peaceful than you can imagine. They have tons of farm animals, and lets you get fresh gets from the chickens. The home is so well kept and so spacious. They have a firepit out back as well. I believe that the family is now even renting out their other property on the land.
Seriously, If you want that small town feel on a farm while you visit out west you HAVE to check this place out. Here is the property ---> https://www.kanabhacienda.com/
Itinerary for Bryce Canyon, Horseshoe Bend, and the Grand Canyon
After you've soaked in the beauty of Zion National Park, extend your adventure to Bryce Canyon National Park, Horseshoe Bend, and the Grand Canyon. Here’s a suggested itinerary:
Day 1: Travel from Zion to Bryce Canyon
- Morning: Depart Zion National Park and head towards Bryce Canyon National Park. The drive is approximately 1.5 to 2 hours.
- Afternoon: Check into your accommodation near Bryce Canyon. Take a leisurely drive along the park's scenic road, stopping at viewpoints like Sunrise Point, Sunset Point, and Bryce Point.
- Evening: Enjoy stargazing at one of the park’s designated viewing areas. Bryce Canyon is known for its dark skies and excellent stargazing opportunities.
Day 2: Explore Bryce Canyon
- Morning: Hike the Queens Garden and Navajo Loop Trail. This 3-mile loop trail takes you through some of the most iconic hoodoos and offers spectacular views.
- Afternoon: Visit the Bryce Canyon Visitor Center to learn more about the park's geology and history. Then, take a drive to Rainbow Point, the highest point in the park, for more breathtaking vistas.
- Evening: Relax and enjoy dinner at a local restaurant. Reflect on your adventures and plan your next day’s activities.
Day 3: Travel to Page, Arizona, and Visit Horseshoe Bend
- Morning: Drive from Bryce Canyon to Page, Arizona. The journey takes about 2.5 hours.
- Afternoon: Visit Horseshoe Bend, a stunning horseshoe-shaped meander of the Colorado River. It's a short hike from the parking area to the overlook, where you'll be greeted with one of the most photographed views in the Southwest.
- Evening: Explore the town of Page, enjoy a meal, and rest up for your Grand Canyon adventure.
Day 4: Visit the Grand Canyon
- Morning: Drive from Page to the Grand Canyon South Rim. The drive is approximately 2.5 hours.
- Afternoon: Explore the South Rim viewpoints, such as Mather Point, Yavapai Point, and Desert View Watchtower. If time permits, take a short hike on the Rim Trail.
- Evening: Watch the sunset over the Grand Canyon, then enjoy dinner at one of the lodges or restaurants within the park.
Day 5: Additional Activities or Return Journey
- Morning: If you have extra time, consider a guided tour or a hike into the canyon, such as the Bright Angel Trail.
- Afternoon: Begin your journey back home or to your next destination, taking with you unforgettable memories of the natural wonders you’ve explored.
A trip to Zion National Park and the surrounding areas offers a wealth of outdoor adventures and stunning landscapes. From the exhilarating hikes within Zion to the serene beauty of the Moqui Sand Caves, the awe-inspiring hoodoos of Bryce Canyon, the dramatic Horseshoe Bend, and the majestic Grand Canyon, this region is a destination that promises to captivate and inspire. Whether you're an avid hiker or a casual traveler, this itinerary will help you make the most of your vacation in one of the most beautiful regions in the United States. So pack your bags, lace up your hiking boots, and get ready for an unforgettable journey through Utah and beyond!
While we were in Utah we stayed at the coolest small container houses in Apple Valley. I could not get enough of how amazing these views were and how nice these little houses turned out. They had skylights to see the stars and I don't even have enough words on how incredible it was! Quick trip to St George and easy scenic drive to Zion.
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